Time trends and predictive factors for safety perceptions among incoming South Australian university students

ProblemYoung workers are over-represented in injury statistics. In order to develop injury prevention strategies, this study investigated time trends and predictive factors relating to safety skills, confidence, and attitudes.MethodAnnual surveys were conducted from 2006-2009 among incoming students at the University of Adelaide. The questions addressed safety training, injury experience, and health and safety perceptions.ResultsTime trends in training, perceived safety skills, confidence, and attitudes were not significant. In terms of skills and confidence, the most important correlate was safety training outside of high school (odds ratio=1.6), especially when repeated, assessed, or in face to face mode. Feeling strongly about safety issues was best predicted by injury experience (OR=1.7) and gender.DiscussionThese results emphasize the value of assessed training, but they are also consistent with published U.S. data, indicating no improvement over time. It is suggested that there be a more integrated approach in safety education, involving schools and workplaces.Impact on industryBy developing an understanding of student safety perceptions and experiences, this research aims to target strategies to reduce the excess injury rate for young workers. Workplaces should be more aware of the limitations of school-based safety education and a more integrated and evidence-based approach should be developed, involving schools and workplaces.Yahya Thamrin, Dino Pisaniello and Sasha Stewar

Prevention of occupational skin cancer

Occupational skin cancer induced by natural and artificial UV radiation and ionizing radiation as well as by chemical carcinogens like arsenic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons is recognized in many countries worldwide. There is a significant body of evidence available to identify work-related causation of occupational skin cancers. A detailed sequential occupational history and possible exposures are essential to identify cases and distinguish occupational from nonoccupational skin cancers. Legal regulation concerning occupational health and safety as well as prevention programs are country-specific and are being delivered to a different extent. Effective prevention programs will include employer policy, worker education, and environmental controls (PPE)